Our Story

Karen Hilburn, a long time Shelton resident, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2002. While undergoing treatment, Karen was struck by the amount of emotional and financial turmoil she and her family went through. Fortunately, Karen had good health insurance and was able to undergo treatment without it being a financial burden. Karen and her husband, Scott, decided to help women living in Mason County who have been diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer get the help they need.

To help meet this need, they went to the Mason General Hospital Foundation with seed money to start a Chapter empowered to raise funds for breast and cervical cancer diagnoses and treatment.

Established in 2004, the mission of the Karen Hilburn Cancer Fund (KHCF) is to help residents of Mason County with medical expenses for breast and cervical cancer, who are uninsured or underinsured. In addition to breast and cervical cancer, in 2017, the KHCF added ovarian, uterine and endometrial cancers, along with Gardasil vaccinations to prevent the HPV virus to their mission. The addition of these treatments will help enhance the quality of health care to patients of Mason County.

In 2020, the KHCF Board of Directors voted to establish their own 501-C-3 nonprofit, independent of the Mason General Hospital Foundation. In doing so they believe that they can bring their clients the best financial assistance in the timeliest manner. The all-volunteer Board can make thoughtful decisions quickly and specifically, to ensure that those in need are assisted in the best way possible.

When contributing to our cause, 100% of all tax-deductible donations go to cancer treatment expenses. Their funds are also allocated to Mason County residents only. In addition to cancer treatment, the KHCF also advocates and assists with prevention through testing and promoting awareness.